Takuofusuma Shrine

Overview

Takuofusuma Shrine is a shrine dedicated to Benzaiten, located on Chikubushima Island, which floats on Lake Biwa. It has been a place of faith since ancient times and is renowned as a power spot. Its history is ancient; while the exact founding date is debated, it certainly existed by at least the Heian period. The shrine sits on a high point on the western side of Chikubushima Island, offering magnificent views of Lake Biwa from its grounds. Takuofusuma Shrine, as a shrine to Benzaiten, is said to grant various blessings, including matchmaking, improvement in artistic skills, maritime safety, and academic success. It's particularly famous for its matchmaking blessings, attracting many couples. Many entertainers also visit to pray for improvement in their artistic abilities. Besides Takuofusuma Shrine, Chikubushima Island is also home to Hōgōn-ji Temple, one of the thirty-three sacred places of the Saigoku Kannon pilgrimage. Hōgōn-ji Temple is connected to Takuofusuma Shrine by a covered corridor. The entire island is famous as a power spot and attracts many tourists. Chikubushima Island is accessible by boat via the Lake Biwa Shikansen ferry. The boat trip itself offers stunning views of Lake Biwa. On Chikubushima Island, visitors can not only visit Takuofusuma Shrine and Hōgōn-ji Temple but also participate in experiential forms of worship, such as *kawarake-nage* (throwing votive clay tablets). In *kawarake-nage*, you throw a clay tablet with your wish written on it towards the torii gate; passing through the gate is said to grant your wish. Takuofusuma Shrine is recommended not only as a power spot but also as a tourist destination where you can enjoy both history and nature. Please visit once.